If you’re planning to stay in Australia with your partner, understanding the partner visa 820 processing time is important. This visa lets you live in Australia while waiting for a permanent visa. But the wait can feel long if you’re not prepared. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know—how long it usually takes, what to expect, and what you can do while waiting.
What is Partner Visa 820?
The 820 visa is a temporary visa for people who are in a relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It is usually the first step in getting permanent residency through the 801 visa.
This visa is made for people who are already in Australia when they apply. It’s also known as the partner visa de facto if you’re not married but living together in a committed relationship.
Once you get this visa, you can stay in Australia until your permanent partner visa is approved.
How Long Does It Take to Process Partner Visa Subclass 820?
There is no exact number of days that the government promises. But based on current data, here’s a general idea of the average processing time:
- 75% of applications are processed in about 15 months
- 90% of applications are processed in about 24 months
These are only estimates. Your case may take more or less time depending on your documents, the strength of your relationship evidence, and how quickly you respond to any requests for more information.
What Affects the Waiting Time?
Several things can speed up or slow down your application:
- Complete Application: If your forms are filled out correctly and all documents are included, your visa may be processed faster.
- Quality of Relationship Evidence: You need to prove that your relationship is real. This means sharing things like joint bank accounts, bills, photos, and travel history. The better your proof, the easier it is for the officer to make a decision.
- Health and Character Checks: These are basic steps, like a medical test and police clearances. If you don’t submit these on time, it can delay your visa.
- Requests for More Information: Sometimes, the immigration department will ask you to send more documents. If you take too long to reply, your case can be delayed.
- Changes in Rules or Staff: If immigration policies change, or if there are fewer officers working, processing may take longer.
What Can You Do While Waiting?
Once you apply for the 820 visa, you may get a Bridging Visa A (BVA). This visa lets you stay in Australia while your 820 visa is being reviewed.
On this visa, you can:
- Work full-time
- Study, although you may need to pay full fees
- Access Medicare, the Australian health system
You can also prepare for the next step, which is the permanent visa (Subclass 801). Keep gathering relationship evidence to show that your relationship is still genuine.
Common Mistakes That Can Slow Down Your Application
Here are a few things that often cause delays:
- Missing Documents: Always check the list of required documents and send everything.
- Wrong Information: Make sure your answers in the form match your documents.
- Not Updating Your Application: If your contact info or life situation changes, let immigration know right away.
- Not Responding Quickly: If the department contacts you for more details, don’t wait to reply.
Tips to Make the Process Smoother
Even though you can’t control everything, you can take steps to avoid delays:
- Stay Organised: Use a checklist to make sure nothing is missed.
- Gather Strong Relationship Proof: Include joint financial documents, messages, emails, travel bookings, and photos.
- Check Emails Often: Immigration will contact you through your ImmiAccount or email. Make sure you don’t miss any messages.
- Ask for Help If Needed: Many people find the process stressful. Talking to a registered migration agent can help.
Partner Visa De Facto Relationship Requirements
If you’re applying as a de facto couple, you need to prove that you’ve lived together for at least 12 months. This doesn’t mean just sleeping over. It means sharing a home, bills, and your life together.
You’ll need to show:
- How long you’ve been together
- That you live at the same address
- That others know about your relationship
- That you share money or things like rent and bills
If you’ve been together for less than 12 months but have a child together, or your relationship is registered, exceptions might apply.
What Happens After You Get the 820 Visa?
Once your temporary visa is approved, you’ll need to wait before applying for the permanent 801 visa. Usually, this happens two years after you submitted the first application.
To move forward, immigration will check that your relationship is still strong. You may be asked to give updated documents like recent photos, joint bills, or shared travel plans.
Once approved, the 801 visa lets you stay in Australia permanently. You’ll also be able to apply for citizenship later if you meet the rules.
What to Expect After Applying for a Partner Visa
The partner visa 820 processing time is different for everyone. On average, it takes between 15 and 24 months, but some cases are faster or slower. The more complete and clear your application, the better your chances of a smooth process.
If you’re feeling confused or need extra help, a migration advisor can support you through each step. The team at KnN Migration has experience with partner visas and can make sure your case is ready for success. It’s always good to have someone guiding you when your future is on the line.
